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7 News AIR FORCE April 17, 2008 With a rate this low, you can afford a few optional extras With one of the lowest car loan interest rates available of just 9.36%p.a. and no ongoingfees, you can own the car you want sooner and save thousands of dollars. Fo r fast pre-approval, visit your local branch or call 1800 033 139. *Comparison rate is calculated on $30,000 secured loan over a 5 year term, based on monthly repayments. WARNING: This comparison rate is true for the example given and may not include all fees and charges. Different terms, fees and other loan amounts might result in a different comparison rate. Terms and conditions, fees and charges apply and are available on request. The rate is correct at the time of printing and subject to change. DEF1265_AANN 9.36 %p.a. comparison rate* Defence Force CreditUnion Limited ABN 57 087 651 385 AFSL 234582 By FLGOFF Eamon Hamilton A SOUND of thunder rolled through New Zealand last month, courtesy of RAAF units operating in the country. Two F-111s from 6SQN deployed to Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) Base Ohakea as part of operational train- ing for recently-graduated F-111 aircrew. They were supported in-country and on their return to Australia by a 36SQN C-17, which was making its first trip to New Zealand. A single C-17 represents nearly 40 per cent of the total RNZAF air lift capability, attracting great interest at some airports from locals seeing the aircraft for the first time. Both aircraft types were in New Zealand over the Easter weekend (March 21-23), allowing them to participate with flying displays in the 'Warbirds over Wanaka' air show, near Queenstown on South Island. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, 'Warbirds over Wanaka' is world-renowned for its flying displays by veteran and vin- tage aircraft, along with modern RNZAF and RAAF types. A small Australian contingent was visible in the warbirds display, with a DeHavilland Vampire jet trainer and Curtiss P-40N Kittyhawk fighter both fly- ing in RAAF colours. One of the air show highlights was a strafing attack along the runway by the Kittyhawk, whose six machine guns fired blank rounds at a target in front of the crowd. The F-111 put on a spirited display for the crowds, demonstrating high speed passes and a 'dirty' dump-and-burn with flaps and landing gear deployed. The Globemaster III, referred to as the "Globey" by commentators at Wanaka, was the largest aircraft in the flying dis- play.The aircraft operated from Christchurch airport during the Wanaka display. The F-111s also appeared at an open day at Ohakea, while RAAF presence on the ground at Wanaka was provided by Air Commander Australia AVM Mark Binskin. The Kiwi hospitality extended to 6SQN, whose week-long deployment allowed the unit more experience in oper- ating away from home. Aircrews undergoing operational con- version were put to the challenge of fly- ing through deep valleys, surrounded by snowcapped mountains and volcanoes, while attacking simulated targets. 6SQN CO WGCDR Stephen Meredith said the New Zealand terrain was a chal- lenging environment for operational crews to train in. "Mount Cook and the surrounding mountains along the spine of South Island was a completely different terrain from back home," WGCDR Meredith said. "The RNZAF enjoyed having us here and it's been a great showing the New Zealanders the F-111's capabilities." Kiwi flights of fancy SIGHTS AND SOUNDS: Above, a 6SQN F-111 comes in fast and low above the crowds gathered to witness the 'Warbirds over Wanaka' spectacle, while above inset, 36SQN's C-17 conducts an aerial display during the air show. Two F-111s and a C-17 deployed to New Zealand for the show and aircrew operational conversion training. FAIR EXCHANGE: Left, PLTOFF Andrew Rudyard, a pilot from 42SQN RNZAF, swaps ideas with 36SQN's SGT Adam Carter at the forward loadmaster's station on board the C-17 during the visit. Photos by LAC Chris Dickson By FLGOFF Bettina Mears ANDREW Fallows from the 'Choir of Hard Knocks' has a brand new wardrobe thanks to 1SQN aircrew at RAAF Base Amberley. Being a keen F-111 enthusiast, Andrew first made contact with 1SQN in February, requesting a cap. "The F-111 is my favourite aircraft and I have been following its development since the Air Force has been flying them," Andrew said. When the squadron aircrew social club heard of Andrew's request, they forward- ed him a personalised cap and aircrew t-shirt, which he now proudly wears to choir practice. Fan sings 1SQN praises LOOKIN' GOOD: Andrew Fallows in 1SQN attire with guide dog 'Eamon'. Polarized fuglies -- Polarized, grey smoked, UV 400, heavy gauge 1.1mm acrylic lenses. Fuglies logo on outside arm (as pictured). As supplied to SAS-R. ADF fuglies -- Ballistic (40 m/s), grey smoked, UV 400, anti-fog, polycarbonate lenses. Fuglies logo discreetly placed on inside arm. Both models include: impact resistant, lightweight, matt black polycarbonate wrap- around frames, with durable steel screwed hinges; detachable, adjustable, elasticised strap with pivoting side mount; soft foam rubber, vented, non-slip eyepiece inserts. Fuglies float on water and comply with ASODs. Discounts available to unit DPRI stores. Send $45 cash, cheque or money order to UVWRAPS, 211 Talbot St Sth, Ballarat VIC 3350. Sole Supplier of ADF Fuglies. For payment by internet banking transfer, cheque or credit card, email - buyfuglies@yahoo.com.au FUGLIES Made to fit your fugly head only $45 delivered Australian designed eye protection for the ADF